Rough spring continues for Detroit Tigers starter Max Scherzer

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Detroit Tigers starter Max Scherzer had an outing that was more like batting practice than anything else.

Scherzer gave up 12 runs (11 earned) on nine hits – including three home runs. Baltimore Orioles left fielder Luke Scott, a long-time thorn in the side of the Tigers, hit a first-inning grand slam and a three-run shot in the second. Jake Fox hit a solo homer leading off the second, and it was the 10th of the spring for the University of Michigan product.

"He just made pitches that eighth and ninth hitters get hits on," said Tigers manager Jim Leyland, "and the middle of the lineup crush them."

The 14-9 loss on Monday marked the first time Detroit gave up double-digit runs this spring. It led the American League with a 2.76 ERA in exhibition games prior to this one.

Leyland came out to get Scherzer with one out in the third inning, and his final tuneup for Sunday's regular season start in New York against the Yankees was over. He was 1-3 with a 10.38 ERA in six spring games.

"It is what it is," Scherzer said. "Spring training is over and it's time for the season. I wished I had a better spring training, but I didn't."

Scherzer, who is encouraged about throwing his slider as well as he ever has, said the problem is a familiar pitching malady. He's opening up his delivery and landing too much on the first base side of the mound.

"I wanted to be dialed in today," Scherzer said, "but I wasn't. I look forward to making the adjustments I need going into my first start...I know it only takes one bullpen (session) to fix it.

"Most importantly, my arm feels good and healthy. I threw 20 pitches in the bullpen after and got to 100 pitches. I am ready for the season."

He won't face the Orioles during the three-game series next week in Baltimore. Scherzer's second start comes April 8 in the Comerica Park opener against the Kansas City Royals.

Scherzer had a strong second half of the season in 2010, and posted a 1.25 ERA in seven starts from July 31 to Sept. 1. He was 12-11 with a 3.50 ERA in 31 starts.